This CHO 6 document is a local implementation action plan based on the same vision, goals, objectives and measurable outcomes as outlined in the national strategy, Connecting for Life, Ireland’s National Strategy to Reduce Suicide 2015-2020. Connecting for Life, sets out a vision where fewer lives are lost through suicide, and where communities and individuals are empowered to improve their mental health and wellbeing.

Minister Harris was joined by Martina Queally (Chief Officer CHO 6), Antoinette Barry (Head of Mental Health CHO 6), Dr Colm Cooney (Executive Clinical Director), Dr Justin Brophy (Clinical Lead with the National Office for Suicide Prevention) as well as representatives from local authorities, the Gardaí, and various voluntary agencies and community groups.

This vision is to be realised through seven goals:

Better understanding of suicidal behaviour

Supporting communities to prevent and respond to suicidal behaviour

Targeted approaches for those vulnerable to suicide

Improved access, consistency and integration of services

Safe and high-quality services

Reduce access to means

Better data and research

Connecting for Life builds on previous work and contributes key elements to moving forward. It is based on extensive consultation, a global knowledge base and defined commitments across government departments and key statutory and non-statutory agencies in Ireland. This local Action Plan is grounded in this approach which recognises the contributions that can be made across all sectors of our community with the aim of reducing suicide. The plan lays out very specific steps to deliver the actions that are relevant to the needs of people in this area.

Speaking at the launch on 27th March, Minister Harris said:

“This Dublin South, Dun Laoghaire and East Wicklow local suicide prevention plan sets out a roadmap to address suicide and self-harm over the next five years. The joint co-operation of all involved in developing this strategy is an excellent example of the strength of local connections and relationships. I congratulate all involved in the creation of this plan.”

Martina Queally (Chief Officer CHO 6) added:

“No one individual organisation or initiative can successfully reduce the number of deaths by suicide. The way forward is to act together within and across services, sectors and communities. With this document, and the defined commitments that lie behind it, we look forward to working together to ensure the full implementation of all of the actions in Connecting for Life; Dublin South East, Dún Laoghaire and East Wicklow 2015 - 2020.”

Dr Justin Brophy (Clinical Advisor, NOSP) said:

"Reducing suicides in our community is possible if we join our efforts both as individuals and agencies to sensitively identify and care for persons in suicidal crisis. For the first time, we now have a detailed local area plan, a map and guide we can all share and use to make this happen. So, let us now commit and ‘Connect for Life’ and together, continue to create real hope and opportunity for recovery from suicidal crisis in our community."